Guide

Email OTP vs magic link

Both say "prove you can read this inbox". They differ in how the proof travels.

Updated 2026-10-02 · Emailsify

One-time code (OTP)

You receive a short number and type it into the page you were already on. It works across devices and is easy to automate in tests.

Testing each

  • OTP: extract the digits and type them into the form.
  • Magic link: extract the URL and open it in the same browser context.
  • Both: check that codes and links expire and cannot be reused.

Frequently asked questions

Which is more secure?

Both rely on inbox access. Short lifetimes and single use matter more than the format.

Keep reading

How to receive a verification code without your real emailStep by step: get a temporary address, use it on a sign-up form and read the code. Plus what to do when a site refuses it.How long do verification codes last?Typical lifetimes of email verification codes and magic links, why they are short and what to do if yours has expired.OTP email testing in CI: a practical guideHow to test one-time-password emails in continuous integration without flakiness: unique inboxes, bounded waits and clear failures.